Back to School: Tips for Getting Your Kid to Brush Their Teeth

August 22, 2016

Brushing with your kids will help them get in the habit of brushing their teeth.

It’s back to school season, and making sure your child practices good oral hygiene should be one of your top priorities. Unfortunately, getting kids excited to brush their teeth can be a challenge for many parents. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few ways to encourage your children to stay on top of their teeth game.

Make it Fun

If your child thinks of brushing their teeth as a chore, then you may need to find a way to make it fun for them. Sometimes the answer is as simple as finding a cooler tooth brush. A toothbrush that resembles a dinosaur, race car, or popular cartoon character can make all the difference for their brushing experience. Toothpastes and floss often come in kid friendly styles, too, and it make all the difference for your child.

Be Creative

If the toothbrush method isn’t working, it may be time to get more creative. Every chore needs an element of fun. Try turning brush time into a game instead of a job. Add some competition. Tell a story. Kids love a classic fairy-tale. Maybe your toothbrush is actually a knight, fighting off the evil plaque dragons in order to save the tooth-fairy princess? Making brushing fun for your child can help them to understand and appreciate the importance of good dental hygeine.

Add a Reward

You shouldn’t have to bribe your child to get them to brush their teeth, and you certainly shouldn’t be trying to entice them with sugary sweets–that would defeat the whole point. However, adding a simple reward to brushing can help motivate your kids to get in the habit. Something as small as a few extra minutes before bedtime can go a long way.

Brush Together

Parents are their children’s natural role model. Kids need to see you brushing your teeth if they’re going to follow suit. Many children, especially the younger ones, strive to be like their parents. Brushing together will help your child learn the importance of good oral hygiene. Plus, you may be surprised to find that it’s a great time to spend quality time together. These are the moments that matter!

Professional Dental Care from Annapolis Dental Care

If you want to schedule your next visit, please contact Annapolis Family Dental Care by calling (410) 267-0766 or visit AnnapolisDentalCare.com today! We can give you more information, or schedule your appointment. Our diligent knowledge of all dental treatments and extensive experience in all fields of dentistry, ensure Annapolis Dental is best suited to care for your oral health. You can also follow Annapolis Dental Care on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.